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13 June, 2010

My Shabby Picnic Basket Planter!

I am excited about my latest project…a planter made from an old picnic basket that has been “antiqued.” It was fun and so easy! I think this may just be my favorite project ever! But if you know me, you know I’m a copy cat…and this time is no exception.

And here is my inspiration! It is a ceramic planter from FCLstyle…a sister company to Pierre Deux...both of which, sadly, are now defunct. And this basket caught my attention right away! But…being the thrifting addict that I am, I immediately began trying to figure out how to make an inexpensive version. So here it is…

First…of course…start with a wicker picnic basket! My Goodwill hunting buddy, Linda at Nina’s Nest, knew I was on the lookout and found this one for me…for only $3.93! Isn’t she a good friend? Hmmm…I need to do some tweaking. (Notice those three brads holding the strap on the lid. I’ll mention them in a moment.)

Sooo… I removed the top and got to work. I cut the straps that were inside (for holding plates, etc.), drilled little holes and folded them over the edge, attaching them through all thicknesses with those brads. Once I was satisfied that this would work, I removed the straps for easier painting.

I spray painted with a coat of white primer, a coat of white paint and then reattached the straps. Next, I “antiqued” it by brushing on medium gray craft paint diluted one part paint to two parts water. I wanted it to look old, but not as dark as theirs. A final coat of clear indoor/outdoor sealer will help protect it from the weather. The inside was already lined with plastic…all ready for planting! I simply cut a few little holes for drainage.

Finally, I added potting soil and begonias! I used moisture control soil because I am hoping that I will need to water less often and extend the life of my planter. And here is the result! What do you think?

I love the contrast of the textures and the shades of pink and gray! And my version only cost about $10 including flowers since I already had most of the things that I needed on hand!

Now I am going to have a cup of coffee and biscotti on the patio and admire my work! lol I need a little quiet time. I just finished dog-sitting for a week for my daughter’s six (yes…six) dogs! It will be nice not to have twelve eyes watching every bite I take!

And the staff is too busy chasing bugs and lizards to notice.

Ahhhh! This is the life! I think that breakfast on the patio is my favorite thing about summer! Won’t you join me?

Update...here it is at the end of the summer...fabulous! I would say those are some happy begonias! This guy will be part of my summer patio regulars!

I love this Debbie! What a great idea. The begonias were the perfect choice. You are so creative, I would never have thought of this in a million years. Put your feet up and relax, I know that taking care of 6 dogs is ALOT of work. Because I used to have 7 :) Hugs, Kat

Love the basket; you are brilliant. It looks so beautiful. I have used old baskets as planters, but have never "modified" them, and within a couple of years they are rotted thru and I am hunting for "new" broken down baskets. I should try the paint-and-seal method. Smart!

That is really gorgeous, Deb. I love the silver colour and the contrast is lovely. I know what you mean about pet-sitting dogs....not much different than kids, I think. Enjoy the quiet, calm & carefree felines today. Loved your post. Have a great week. Hugs, Deb =^..^=x5

Debbie, your basket planter looks fantastic. Like it better as a planter than a picnic basket. You are so clever. Your tea setting looks welcoming. Love the dishes. French? Have a great Sunday! ~ Sarah

Debbie, I saw this idea at the sale I was at yesterday and I loved it!! In fact, I bought a $2 picnic basket at a rummage sale earlier in the week! Will wonders never cease? You are inspiring many.... hugs, Sue

That is just superb Debbie!I love it, such a great idea and soooo charming!You have the talent girl and I love the mini-tablescape too. I can't believe you babysat for 6 dogs with all those kitties too!You went above and beyond the call of Grandma duty!Hugs,Cindy

Love your mosaic and the basket idea is just too cute. Your blog title caught my eye at Mary's mosaic Mondays and I just had to come visit. I am currently looking for dishes to display on my table.Love your blog and am not a follower.

Debbie, what a wonderful transformation. I have a basket just like this I use for all of my hand work. Now, I don't sit and do handwork much any more, so I may have to "copy" your idea.. love, love, love it.. hugs ~lynne~

Hi Debbie! Oh, I love this! The basket looks great and then you made it look better by painting it! Love you've put flowers in it too. Your table is lovely and I'm chuckling at seeing the backside of your little helper sticking out from the bushes! :)Thanks for popping in to see me.be a sweetie,Shelia :)

You know...I think I have one of those little baskets around here somewhere! What a great job you did on it. Did you do anything with the top of the basket? You did every bit as good as the one in the photo! Adorable!!

I love everything about this! It's beautiful, practical, economical, eco froendly and your own inspired interpretation of something that was mass produced. And yours is the REAL thing that the inspiration piece was attempting to imitate.

Deb, this is one of my favorite makeovers you've done! Totally so lovely and French like...I am loving it! I recently picked some of these up to stagger and then put the glass top on the three cases to make it an end table. I would never have thought of making into a planter! LOVING IT! :) Hugs friend~ ~CC

Very nice. I especially like the light weight of the basket. The terra cotta pots are so heavy, and the plastic ones so yuk, this is a fun and great idea for someone like me who can't seem to lift a thing anymore.Thanks, I love your blog

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